Delhi has been placed under the highest security alert ahead of Independence Day 2026, with posters of 19 wanted terrorists displayed across the capital and a multi-layered surveillance grid deployed around the Red Fort.

Authorities are combining manpower, advanced technology, and public awareness campaigns to counter threats from Indian Mujahideen, Al-Qaeda, and Khalistani networks.

Posters carrying photographs of 19 wanted terrorists have been put up at multiple locations across Delhi. These individuals are linked to groups such as Indian Mujahideen, Al-Qaeda, and Khalistani terror organisations.

The initiative is part of the annual security drill conducted before Independence Day and is aimed at raising public awareness and seeking assistance from citizens in identifying and tracking those considered a threat to the capital.

Delhi Police have appealed to the public to share any credible information regarding the individuals featured in the posters. Assurances have been given that informants’ identities will remain confidential, and rewards will be provided for actionable intelligence. Names such as Riyaz Bhatkal, Iqbal Bhatkal, Mohammed Sharjeel Akhtar, Abu Sufian, Syed Mohammed Arshiyan, Ranjit Singh alias Neeta, Paramjit Singh Pamma, Arshdeep Singh alias Arsh Dalla, Harvinder Singh Sandhu alias Rinda, Wadhawa Singh Babbar, and Gurmeet Singh Bagga are among those listed.

The Red Fort, where the main Independence Day celebrations will be held, has been placed under a multi-layered security cover. Around 15,000–20,000 Delhi Police and paramilitary personnel are expected to be deployed for the event, which will be attended by VIPs and VVIPs. Nearly 1,000 CCTV cameras, including facial recognition-enabled systems, have been installed in and around the monument. A high-tech control room inside the Red Fort will monitor every movement within a three-kilometre radius.

Security agencies are intensifying surveillance across crowded markets, Delhi Metro stations, bus terminals, railway stations, government buildings, and sensitive installations. The Abhigyan application, which contains a database of over one crore criminals, is being used by police personnel with handheld devices to screen fingerprints.

A red alert indicates a criminal record, while a green signal confirms no match. Facial recognition vans equipped with high-resolution cameras have also been deployed at strategic locations to scan faces in crowds and match them against databases.

Snipers have been positioned at elevated vantage points, while anti-drone systems have been installed to prevent unauthorised aerial activity. Restrictions on kite flying, drones, paragliders, hot-air balloons, and micro-light aircraft have been imposed around the Red Fort to prevent breaches. Electricity distribution companies have separately warned residents against flying kites near power lines due to the dangers posed by manjha strings.

Intelligence inputs have highlighted threats from Pakistan-based terrorist organisations and Khalistani elements, as well as the possibility of sudden protests. Security agencies are maintaining heightened vigilance and close coordination to ensure smooth conduct of the celebrations. Quick Reaction Teams, rooftop deployments, and anti-sabotage checks are part of the layered defence grid.

Travel advisories have also been issued, with intensified checks at railway stations, longer queues at Metro stations, and restrictions on heavy vehicles entering Delhi around the full-dress rehearsal and Independence Day. Passengers at Delhi airport have been advised to arrive early due to enhanced screening measures.

The comprehensive security program reflects the authorities’ determination to safeguard the national capital during the high-profile event. The combination of manpower, advanced surveillance technology, and public participation is expected to reinforce confidence among citizens and ensure the safe conduct of the Independence Day celebrations.

PTI